Devastatia Tour Unleashed
Priyanka: Devastatia Tour Unleashed
Canada's Drag Race Winner Brings Spectacle to Windsor
Priyanka, the winner of the first season of Canada’s Drag Race, has captured hearts and headlines with her infectious personality, dazzling performances, and fierce style. With Indo-Guyanese roots and a background as a TV host for YTV, Priyanka has proven to be a true multi-talented entertainer. Now, she’s back with her highly anticipated Devastatia Tour, hitting more than 30 stops across North America, South America, and Europe. As she prepares to bring her electrifying show to Windsor’s Rockstar Music Hall on November 15, 2024, Priyanka is ready to leave fans in awe once again.
THIS is DRAG: How has life changed for you since taking the crown?
Priyanka: I remember the week before I found out if I was going to win Drag Race. I was in Windsor performing on a patio, and I think about all the crazy things that have changed since that day and yet, everything is still the same. The hustle is still 100%, and by winning I've been given a really cool platform to do the projects I want to do and to continue to show everyone that Canadian drag is iconic.
TiD: Your Devastatia Tour is massive, with more than 30 stops across multiple continents. What inspired you to create this tour, and how did it come together?
P: I had an old manager say that I should just go to two cities. And I said, no, no, no- I won Canada's Drag Race in 2020. I think it's important that I go around and thank all the people personally who supported me all across Canada, North America, the UK, Europe, South America. I know that I won a TV competition, but I know in my heart the best way to see me is in a live performance.
TiD: What can fans expect from Devastatia that sets it apart from your previous performances and other drag tours?
P: They can expect a fully fleshed out pop legend icon story about my life. The views are in and people are saying that it's a show that they've never, ever seen before. And some people are even coining it as their favorite concert ever!
TiD: How do you stay creatively energized and inspired when you’re performing on such a long tour?
P: It's easy for me to stay creative when I’m on the tour. It's before the tour when I’m doing everything myself to get ready for it that I have no time to be creative. So, the fix for me is to remember to give myself time to dream. Because without dreaming, there’s nothing you have to work towards to make it come true.
“They’ve never, ever seen a show like this before!”
TiD: You have a stop in Windsor coming up. What are you looking forward to at this particular show?
P: One of my number one fans Katie is from Windsor. I'm excited to go back to Windsor and perform for one of the first supporters I had when I first started drag, and show the town of Windsor and Katie how much growth I've experienced thanks to their support.
TiD: From TV host to drag superstar, your career has been so diverse. How do you balance these different aspects of your career, and how have they influenced your drag?
P: I know that my purpose in life is to entertain people. So, I'm giving my all to it, no matter what the form is. It could be a live performance, it could be TV, it could be on social media. I just love it all.
TiD: After this tour, what's next for Priyanka? Any exciting projects or collaborations on the horizon?
P: Absolutely, but I can't tell you about it yet.
TiD: Is there anything else that you would like to add for your fans in Southwestern Ontario?
P: Come see me in person - it’ll be a show unlike anything you’ve ever seen before!
Don’t miss Priyanka’s Devastatia Tour when it hits Windsor’s Rockstar Music Hall on November 15, 2024, presented by Lavender Promotions. Tickets are on sale now, so grab yours and prepare to be blown away by one of Canada’s brightest drag superstars!
Devastatia Tour
Friday, November 15, 2024
At Rockstar Music Hall in Windsor, Ontario
Pythia: Unleashing Myth and Magic
Pythia: Unleashing Myth and Magic at The Devil's Ball
Get ready for a night of magic, mystery, and myth as Pythia, the sensational Greek-Canadian drag artist from Canada’s Drag Race season 2 and RuPaul’s Drag Race Global All Stars, descends upon Sarnia for a spellbinding performance at The Devil's Ball. Known for blending historical and mythical elements into her jaw-dropping looks and performances, Pythia has captivated fans with her innovative take on drag. Raised in Greece and now based in Montreal, this costume designer and performer has brought an enchanting, otherworldly presence to the stage.
On October 25, 2024, Pythia will be joined by a fantastic lineup including Sheerah Mae Heartt, POISON, Charlize Angel, Karma Kameleon, Lillith Nox, and Miss Conduct, in a Halloween-inspired drag event you won’t want to miss! Hosted at Refined Fool Brewing Co., the evening promises a costume contest, fierce performances, and a meet-and-greet with the queens. Doors open at 8pm, with tickets starting at $25 and meet-and-greet options for $35.
We sat down with Pythia to discuss her career, creativity, and what fans can expect from her upcoming performance at The Devil’s Ball.
THIS is DRAG: Welcome, Pythia! How are you feeling about performing at The Devil’s Ball in Sarnia this October?
Pythia: I cannot wait! I have never been to Sarnia before, and I love a Halloween event. Spooky season is when my power is at its peak, so I am ecstatic!
TiD: Your drag is often infused with historical and mythical elements. Can you tell us more about how these influences shape your drag persona?
P: I love fashion and costume history, as well mythology and religion, and a lot of my performances or looks are inspired by such concepts! Whether obvious or not, there are always elements ingrained into my work, and not a single detail goes unplanned! I also named myself after Pythia who was an oracle of the god of the arts, Apollo, so to me it’s a way to manifest this ancient feminine power into the present through my drag!
“Spooky season is when my power is at its peak, so I am ecstatic!”
As a costume designer, your looks are always intricate and unique. What’s your process for creating these incredible outfits, and where do you find your inspiration?
As mentioned before, a lot of it is referential of various aspects of my Greek culture, or general interests of mine. Every look is different and tells a different story! They are all like different characters in a play that is Pythia! I can’t explain it, but the inspiration strikes at the strangest moments, and I’ve come up with some of my greatest concepts in my dreams!
You were raised in Greece before moving to Montreal as a teenager. How did your upbringing in these different cultures influence your style and approach to drag?
I just think it has allowed me to love myself no matter what. Growing up in the hyper Christian Orthodox society of Greece, I felt ostracized and like I could never belong in my own culture, but drag made me realize that I can actually celebrate myself for my identity just as I am. That’s why I’m so proud to represent my culture and customs through a queer lens. Cause I can’t imagine how many queer Greek people feel the way I did, and I want to show that we also belong.
What first inspired you to start performing drag, and how did you develop your signature blend of myth and glamour?
I began drag through cosplay and theater! The story telling and attention to detail that goes behind theatricality and performance is so intriguing to me. I wanted to share all the crazy ideas and stories locked up in my brain somehow, and drag allowed me to do just that! It’s like a different medium of art to me. I do it all in the context of the arts, painting, drawing, illustrating, photography, sculpture, props, costumes, makeup etc.! But drag combines all of my love for art in one!
You made a huge impact on Canada’s Drag Race and Global All Stars. How has your time on these shows influenced your career, and what’s been the most rewarding part of the journey?
Honestly so much! Everything changed because of these shows and I am forever grateful and blessed. I remind myself every day, how lucky I am to be able to do what I love full time, and connect with and touch so many people from around the world through my art. And just the fact that it’s allowed me to travel and experience different parts of the world, and Canada and enrich myself with the local queer histories and talents of each place I visit, is the best prize I could ever win!
Greek mythology is a central theme in much of your work. What is it about these ancient stories that resonates with you and your drag?
The fact that they were so queer and raw. The ancient stories even beyond Greece, had so much queer identity and matriarchal importance that has been completely sanitized and erased through Christianity and Colonization. The ancient gods were so close to us and to what humanity is and always has been. They were jealous, greedy, messy, and made mistakes... They loved, and feared, and bled, and hurt. They were imperfect like humans! I feel like modern religions have completely convinced us to aspire to an unattainable “sinless” perfection, but that’s just not what human nature is.
Halloween is coming up, and The Devil’s Ball has a spooky theme. Can you give us a sneak peek into your costume or the vibe you're bringing to the event?
All I’m gonna say is you’ll all have 7 days to live after watching my performance.
What’s been your most memorable performance to date, and what made it stand out for you?
My favourite performance would have to be a number I did in 2019 for a local Drag Competition in Montreal, where I perform as a psychic medium during a seance and even levitate a table with magic! Woooo!
You’re known for pushing boundaries and creating art that’s truly unique. How do you stay inspired and keep evolving in your drag career?
Just generally pushing myself and trying things even if they sound insane or impossible to do. Even if I don’t think I’ll be able to make something, I always attempt! It’s a learning experience nonetheless! Constantly creating at 100% and only editing down if I have to! That’s my life motto, the sky is not the limit, I can go further than that!
How do you balance the artistry of costume design with the performance aspect of drag, and what’s more challenging for you?
My drag performances are 100% linked with my costumes. All the numbers I build, I build along with whatever costume I will be wearing, and most numbers only work with that particular costume and that’s it! The challenge would be making more adaptable universal looks that I can perform multiple numbers in, but I love my theatricality too much to sacrifice that!
Have you performed in Sarnia or the surrounding area before, and how are you feeling about coming to perform in a smaller city like this one?
I haven’t! The closest place in proximity would have to be Hamilton, for the premiere episode viewing party of Canada’s Drag Race Season 2! I love performing in smaller cities. It’s more intimate and special and I tend to connect with the audience more in this way!
What advice would you give to drag performers who are looking to incorporate more storytelling and artistic elements into their work?
I think storytelling is naturally a vital part to drag, and my only advice would be to just cultivate it more, and find ways to incorporate more into a drag performance than just high kicks and splits! Discover what it is you want to say through your drag, and think of all the ways you can say it through performance or visual! Background videos, props, costume/wig reveals are things I personally love incorporating into my work!
Can you tell us about any upcoming projects or performances that fans can look forward to?
Lots of gigs and cool things coming up, that I post constantly on my socials, but the thing that will take up most of my attention in November is rehearsals for a theater show I’m creating with Denim from Season 4 of CDR! It’s called “ORACULUM” and it’ll go live on December 1st-December 15 at Buddies in Bad Times in Toronto! Super excited for this project!
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers or your fans ahead of The Devil’s Ball?
Just a huge thank you for all the love and support, and just for having me in your beautiful city! I cannot wait to meet and party with everyone!
Don't miss this opportunity to see Pythia and a dazzling lineup of drag performers at The Devil's Ball on October 25, 2024, at Refined Fool Brewing Co. Get ready for an evening of myth, mystery, and magic, and don’t forget to come dressed to impress for the costume contest! Doors open at 8pm, with general admission at $25 and meet-and-greet options available for $35. Secure your tickets now for a hauntingly fabulous night!
The Devil's Ball
Friday, October 25, 2024
At Refined Fool Brewing Company in Sarnia, Ontario
Angeria's All Star Night
Angeria's All Star Night
Get ready, Windsor! On September 15, 2024, the legendary Angeria Paris VanMicheals will grace the stage at Caesars Windsor for a very special event: RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars Live. Angeria, an African American pageant queen known for her blend of "pageant, glamorous, and country," captured hearts on the fourteenth season of RuPaul's Drag Race and recently made history as the winner of All Stars season 9. Representing The National Black Justice Collective, she earned $200,000 for this vital cause, solidifying her place as a force of beauty and activism. Angeria will be joined by fellow All Stars season 9 contestants Plastique Tiara, Roxxxy Andrews, Jorgeous, Shannel, and Miss Vanjie, in a night of fierce performances and unforgettable entertainment.
We had the honor of catching up with Angeria Paris VanMicheals to discuss her journey, her activism, and what fans can expect from her upcoming performance in Windsor.
DRAG MAG: Welcome, Angeria! How are you feeling about performing at RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars Live in Windsor?
Angeria Paris VanMicheals: I am so excited to be performing in Windsor. This will be my first time in Windsor.
DM: You've described yourself as "pageant, glamorous, and country." How do these elements come together in your drag persona, and how have they evolved over time?
APVM: I wouldn’t be the entertainer. I am today without my background in pageantry and my southern upbringing. They both have allowed me to harness my charm, personality and polish in drag.
DM: What inspired you to start performing drag, and how did your pageant background shape your approach to the art form?
APVM: I saw my very first drag show in Atlanta Georgia and I knew that night that I want it to start performing I saw the wigs and sparkly dresses, and found my purpose.
DM: Can you share the story behind your drag name, Angeria Paris VanMicheals?
APVM: I went to college with a girl named Angera. I loved her name, so I added an “I” in front of the “A” and it just stuck.
DM: You recently won All Stars season 9, representing The National Black Justice Collective. What did this victory mean to you, and how do you hope to continue using your platform for advocacy?
APVM: It felt great to win, representing a cause that means so much to me. I plan to continue to work with my organization and do all I can to help protect our black and queer people.
DM: How did it feel to earn $200,000 for The National Black Justice Collective, and how do you plan to support this cause moving forward?
APVM: This win was very special for me. The organization has been so supportive of me through my entire journey this season, so winning the money for them was the icing on the cake. I plan to continue to advocate for queer people of color.
DM: As a pageant queen, what are some of the most memorable competitions you've participated in, and what have you learned from those experiences?
APVM: My most memorable moments in pageants are competing and reigning as Black America Jr Miss 2019. This was my biggest achievement in pageantry and competing for this pageant taught me how to prepare for competition which Litre helped me compete for Drag Race.
DM: Who are your biggest inspirations in and out of drag, and how have they influenced your work?
APVM: My biggest inspirations are my parents, my drag mom Envy Vanmicheals and Tommie Ross.
DM: What has been your biggest achievement in your drag career so far, and why is it significant to you?
APVM: My biggest achievement in my Drag career is definitely winning All stars season nine. I could have never imagined growing up in the south in my small town that one day I would compete or even win RuPaul‘s drag race.
DM: How do you prepare for your performances, and what can the audience in Windsor expect from your show at RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars Live?
APVM: I always tell myself “just do it” and then I go on stage and I have fun. My performance, for the show will be glamorous and reminiscent of old Hollywood movie stars.
DM: Have you ever performed in Windsor or the surrounding area before? If so, how does it feel to be back? If not, what are you looking forward to the most about performing here?
APVM: I have never performed in Windsor before, but I am definitely looking forward to it. I love performing in new places. I’m looking forward to meeting my fans in Windsor, the most of all.
DM: How do you balance the demands of your drag career with your personal life?
APVM: I always have to set aside days at home for myself, where I do nothing but sit on my couch and binge watch my favorite shows like Claws and Real Housewives.
DM: What advice would you give to aspiring drag performers who look up to you?
APVM: The best advice I can give to aspiring drag performers is to always remember to have fun. Doing drag is all about spreading joy. Also, to always remember that the more you practice something the better you will get at it that also applies to performing and doing make up.
DM: Can you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about?
APVM: I am excited to be performing on the Murray and Peter presents “A Drag Queen Christmas” this coming December. Also, keep your eyes peeled because you may be seeing me back on your TV screen soon.
DM: Is there anything else you’d like to add or share with our readers today?
APVM: I am so excited to be coming to Windsor and I hope everyone comes out to see and support this amazing show.
“I wouldn’t be the entertainer I am today without my background in pageantry and my Southern upbringing.”
Don't miss this spectacular event! Join us at Caesars Windsor on September 15, 2024, for RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars Live, featuring the one and only Angeria Paris VanMicheals and an all-star lineup of contestants from season 9. Presented by World of Wonder, Paramount, and Voss Events, it's a night of fierce performances, glamour, and celebration you won't want to miss. Get your tickets now and prepare for an unforgettable evening!
RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars Live
Sunday, September 15, 2024
At Caesars in Windsor, Ontario
Trinity The Tuck’s Return
Trinity The Tuck’s Return
Get ready, Windsor! WePrideFest is bringing an unforgettable night of glamour and talent to Lanspeary Park. On Saturday, August 10, 2024, Queens of Pride will feature an electrifying lineup of drag performances headlined by none other than Trinity the Tuck, also known as Trinity Taylor. Trinity rose to fame on the ninth season of RuPaul's Drag Race and claimed the crown on the fourth season of All Stars, sharing the title with Monet X Change. She also dazzled audiences on the all-winners seventh season of All Stars. Joining Trinity will be Aimee Yonce Shennel from Canada's Drag Race season 4. Hosted by AM800's Dan MacDonald, the event will also spotlight local talents Vanity Affair, Lena Di, Star, Benz Menova, Epoxy, and Venom Vonsnaps.
Before she takes the stage, we had the chance to sit down with Trinity the Tuck for an exclusive interview.
DRAG MAG: Welcome back to Windsor, Trinity! How are you feeling about performing at Queens of Pride?
Trinity the Tuck: Thank you for the welcome! I always love coming to Windsor. I have family right outside of Detroit so this just feels like an extension of family! I’m super excited to celebrate Pride with you all.
DM: You've performed at numerous pride events over the years. What does performing at pride events mean to you personally?
TtT: I think performing at pride, not only is way for me to connect to my fans and to celebrate love, also it’s a continuation of making sure we are seen and heard because even still our rights as human beings are being taken away.
DM: In what ways do you think pride events have evolved over the years, and what role do you think drag plays in these celebrations?
TtT: Pride has evolved from kind of a disorderly protest in the early stages when we were fighting for our rights! It has evolved to be more of a celebration, even though it is still a protest Drag artist are the voices of the queer community. Anytime there is a benefit show to be put on or someone speaking on behalf of our community it is usually a drag artist!
DM: This isn't your first time in Windsor. How does it feel to return, and do you have any special memories or experiences from your previous visits?
TtT: I love the city. Everyone is so kind and welcoming here! I love that everyone is so excited about drag here!
DM: You've had an incredible journey on RuPaul's Drag Race, from season nine to winning All Stars season four and competing in the all-winners season. How has your experience on the show shaped you as a performer and a person?
TtT: I think that being on Drag Race has opened my eyes to all sorts of drag. Coming from a small town where Drag was very much in a box to travel in the world and seeing all kinds of creative artists, I view drag differently. It definitely has pushed my drag to be better because there are so many amazing artists out there!
DM: What was it like sharing the All Stars 4 crown with Monet X Change? How did that moment impact your career?
TtT: There is not a single entertainer out there that I would rather share this title with! Getting to know Monet over the last several years has been my pleasure and she is not only an incredible artist but such a kind person! I think our win is so unique to the franchise. There’s not any other double crown winners, and that is special to me.
DM: Can you tell us a bit about the evolution of your drag persona, from Trinity Taylor to Trinity the Tuck?
TtT: When I first started Drag, I really wanted my Drag to go in a very Goth style. I really tailored my Drag after Trinity from the matrix. I only wore jet black hair and vinyl. Over the years I tried different styles until I finally leaned into the drag I have today. I’m still Trinity Taylor. Trinity the Tuck is just a nickname, an extension of Trinity Taylor.
DM: You've been known for your incredible looks and impeccable fashion. Where do you draw your inspiration from, and how do you keep your style fresh and innovative?
TtT: Drag is all about being inspired by your surroundings, fashion, and other artists. It’s about bringing your creativity to life. I think also collaborating with other artist such as amazing designers that we have in our community really helps elevate each artist and keep them unique and fresh.
DM: How do you prepare for your performances, and what can the audience in Windsor expect from your show?
TtT: I have been doing this so long. I don’t really have a ritual to prepare for anymore. I am in my groove of what I do as an artist. I think you all can expect what I do best which is great costumes, interactive performances, banter with the audience and high-performance.
DM: You've been a vocal advocate for various causes within the LGBTQ+ community. Can you share some of the issues that are particularly close to your heart?
TtT: Yes, absolutely! I definitely think when you have a platform you should use that to some capacity for the betterment of mankind. I have advocated for many causes over the years, but my number one is always local artist! I was a local artist far longer than I have been on TV and I know the struggle. Artists that haven’t been on TV. Do not get adequate pay to what they deliver on stage and what is required of them. I try to uplift artists to be seen. Encourage audiences to support those in their community.
DM: What advice would you give to upcoming drag performers who aspire to reach the levels of success you've achieved?
TtT: Anyone who is successful has been faced with many challenges along the way. Many doors closed, but they never gave up! My advice would just be to keep pushing forward and when a door closes just open a window! Also invest in your Drag and get several costumes so that way you have enough for a show!
DM: With so many drag shows and tours, how do you maintain a balance between your professional and personal life?
TtT: I think that’s always a struggle for anyone who is constantly on the road. I try to maintain the closer relationships that I have and I’m very fortunate that the people in my inner circle are very understanding of how this business works.
DM: How do you see the future of drag evolving, and what role do you hope to play in that future?
TtT: The future of Drag is endless! This is an art form and really you can do anything with it. I hope that it continues to evolve to be even more inclusive, and like I said, previously, I try to uplift all types of artists so that I may play a part in giving a platform to those who do not have as large of one.
“Performing at pride is a continuation of making sure we are seen and heard because even still our rights as human beings are being taken away.”
DM: What message would you like to share with your fans in Windsor and the readers of THISisDRAG.com and DRAG MAG?
TtT: Just remember what pride is for and that we have to continue to be proud of who we are and who we love and representation is everything! Make your voice be heard and stand up for what you believe in. Also, no matter where you are, register to vote because your voice is your number one tool!
DM: Do you have any upcoming projects that you’re excited about and can share with us?
TtT: I just released a full album called Sinematic. It is out now and you can watch two of the music videos on my YouTube right now and listen to the album wherever you find your music! Also, if you have access to the streaming service Tubi, you can check out a movie I’m in with Heidi N Closet, Crystal Methyd and Cara Melle! It’s called Slay!
DM: Is there anything else you’d like to add or share with us today?
TtT: Wishing you a happy pride and stay safe! Super excited to see you all!
Don't miss this spectacular event! Join us at Lanspeary Park on Saturday, August 10, 2024, for Queens of Pride, featuring the fabulous Trinity the Tuck and a stellar lineup of performers. Presented by WePrideFest and hosted by AM800's Dan MacDonald, it's a night you won't want to miss. Get your tickets now and prepare for an evening of unforgettable entertainment!
Queens of Pride
Saturday, August 10, 2024
At Lanspeary Park, in Windsor, Ontario
This article has been brought to you by WEPrideFest in Windsor, ON.
Kylie Sonique Love: Embracing YOUphoria
Kylie Sonique Love: Embracing Youphoria
Get ready for a night of dazzling performances and celebration of diversity as Kylie Sonique Love, the trailblazing winner of RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars season 6, graces Sarnia with her presence! As the first person to come out as transgender on any reality TV show, Kylie has paved the way for countless others in the LGBTQ+ community. She will be performing at the highly anticipated event YOUphoria on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Imperial City Brew House, presented by Sarnia-Lambton PrideFest. Joining her will be The Girlfriend Experience from Canada's Drag Race season 4, with the event hosted by Farra N Hyte and featuring incredible talents like Heaven Lee Hytes, Tommi Boy, Maple Queef, Poison, and Sarnia's own Brenda. This all trans and non-binary cast event is 19+ and free to attend, with donations supporting QT Camp, and will be followed by a dance. Don't miss this unforgettable evening of unity and celebration!
DRAG MAG: YOUphoria is an all trans and non-binary cast event. How important do you think it is to have events that specifically highlight trans and non-binary performers?
KSL: Oh, goodness. I think it's extremely important to include all kinds of performers, especially trans and non-binary performers. We've always been in these shows, and I think because it's taken a while for mainstream to realize that, that it kind of put a halt on how people viewed us in these shows. But I feel like trans and non-binary people have always been part of the drag world. And so it's nice to be recognized again.
DM: You made history as the first person to come out as transgender on a reality TV show. How do you reflect on that moment now, and what impact do you think it has had on the drag and LGBTQ+ communities?
KSL: At the time, when I came out as trans on Drag Race, I had no idea what I was doing and what I was saying was going to be a snowball effect. I feel like I was part of a snowball effect for the trans community, as far as mainstream for drag and mainstream exposure. Before then, we had Candis Cayne and Laverne Cox, but I'm really grateful that I could be that person. I know when I was a kid, I didn't have somebody like that to see, so I'm glad that I could be that for people coming up.
DM: Winning Drag Race All Stars season 6 was a monumental achievement. How has your life and career changed since taking home the crown?
KSL: Well, it's nice to be recognized for my talent, and that was nice to be able to come back to Drag Race and have people see me and see my talent. I feel like, as far as changed me, I don't feel like it's changed me at all. What I've realized is it's changed the people around me, and it's changed the way that people see me. But I feel like me, as a person, I haven't really changed. I just feel more seen, and I have noticed the change of the people around me, if that makes any sense.
DM: What can the audience at YOUphoria expect from your performance in Sarnia?
KSL: I feel like people have an idea of what they think they're going to see when they see me, but I think ultimately, I just feel like it's going to be more than what they were expecting. It's going to be different and more than what they were expecting out of me, and I like that. People think they're going to get one thing, and I give them something else that they're going to like, too.
DM: How do you prepare for an event like this? Any pre-show rituals or routines?
KSL: I like to meditate. I really like to envision myself, before I go on stage, doing a good job, and positivity, and being able to not only do something that I can be proud of, but that other people can remember and be inspired by. And that I don't hurt myself when I'm on stage. Other things I like to do, I don't drink or anything like that. I'm not trying to get messed up before I go on stage. But I think for me, it's always been meditating. I always say a little prayer before I go on stage, and that really grounds me and allows me to feel safe and put on a good show.
DM: You’re joining a great lineup of performers for this event. What are you looking forward to most about sharing the stage with so much diverse talent?
KSL: I always have a good time when I'm working with people that I've never met before or new entertainers. I find that we're able to learn from each other, and it's just such a good feeling. A lot of good energy. Everyone being so excited, and I'm just so happy that I get to be a part of all that.
DM: This event supports QT Camp through donations. Why do you think it's important for the drag community to engage in and support charitable initiatives?
KSL: I think what's most important is community, and in order to have a strong community, we have to take care of that community, so being able to have charities that help fund the community is super important, because without each other, we have no community.
DM: You’ve had a remarkable journey from Drag Race season 2 to All Stars 6. How do you think the drag scene has evolved over the years, particularly regarding the inclusion and visibility of trans performers?
KSL: Where I'm from, we've always had trans people in the shows. If anything, we've had more trans people in the shows, but for a while, it seemed like it wasn't a place that we should be at because of the tone. I do feel like not having trans people on a show like RuPaul's Drag Race that's so mainstream and that it's a lot of people's first introduction to drag, it does a disservice to the community. So I think it's really incredible that we are back in the conversation, we are there, and it's a safe place for trans people to work. It's an environment where we can be celebrated for who we are.
DM: What advice would you give to young trans and non-binary individuals who are looking to get into drag and performance art?
KSL: I think the advice I would give anyone who is wanting to get into drag is just to have fun with it. Try to be unique and show off your talent. It's a good way to shine a spotlight on your talent. And just to take that what makes you special and embellish it and show it to the world.
DM: Who are some of your biggest inspirations within the drag and LGBTQ+ communities?
KSL: One of my biggest inspirations in the drag and LGBT community would be RuPaul. RuPaul is a huge inspiration to me. Candis Cayne, Lady Bunny. Mr. Charlie Brown from Atlanta, she just passed away recently. They are like pillars in the community and they were on the front line so to speak. They were the voices and the faces of our community when it was not accepted, when you could be thrown in jail, easily hurt without any repercussions to the people who are hurting you. So I am inspired by the people who came before me.
“I just want to inspire people to go and live their dreams. Not just chase them but live them out.”
DM: What has been your favourite moment or performance in your drag career so far?
KSL: One of my favorite performances that I did was performing with Miley Cyrus. Being with her has really been a big highlight of my career. Doing the VMAs, which is something I was so inspired by as a kid and even as a young performer. I was always inspired by the VMAs. Then getting to do a Pride special with Miley in Tennessee, which is a very conservative state, and performing on the stage. It's the Ryman Theater, but it was originally the Grand Ole Opry where great people like Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn performed. Those are women that I looked up to. To be able to perform on that stage with Miley and get to be myself and have a show of queer love and talent was great. Me and Miley did a show in Vegas on July 4th of 2021, and we were the first live show after the pandemic. That was really awesome to be able to share the stage, just me and her. The synergy that we had was so incredible, and I'll never forget that.
DM: Aside from performing, do you have any other projects or passions that you're currently working on or looking forward to in the near future?
KSL: There's a lot that I'm working on. I've been working on music. Right before I got back on All Stars I really focused a lot on writing and producing music. Also, I'm in the works of creating my own podcast. I just want to be able to share my voice and to have conversations with all different walks of life of people. I think it's really important. I'm really looking forward to the future and to my podcast and to produce some more music.
DM: What message do you hope to convey to your fans and the audience through your performances and presence in events like YOUphoria?
KSL: The message that I'd like to convey to the audience is to just show up and spread love. That's genuinely how I feel. I know it sounds pretty simple. I can show you better than I can tell you. Showing up and being myself and having confidence in front of a room full of people as a trans person, as a queer person, and as a person in general is inspiring. I just want to inspire people to go and live their dreams. Not just chase them, but live them out. That's what I'm doing when I'm on stage. I am living my dreams out loud.
DM: What are you most excited about for the future of drag and the broader LGBTQ+ community?
KSL: I'm excited to see where else queer people can be celebrated other than just queer spaces. I think drag is the key that has opened the door for queer people to be celebrated. Not just because they do good hair or can rearrange a house and furniture. I think there's just so many stereotypes of what queer people only had a use for. I think we're able to do anything that anyone else is doing. I really feel like drag is definitely helping the world see queer people be stars and be successful at more than just queer entertainment. I can't wait to see what all else we can be. I can't wait until it's not just an LGBT community. I can't wait until we can just drop all of that and everyone just be one together. No matter how you identify or how you pray or how you love, I would ultimately like to see us break these acronyms and just be people again.
DM: And lastly, is there anything that you would like to add?
KSL: I would like to say I love Canada and anytime that I'm able to get to come to your beautiful country, I feel extremely blessed. Canada holds a dear place in my heart. They've always made me feel like a star and I hope to get to see more of Canada more often. Also, I would love for people to stream my music under Kylie Sonique Love and just follow up with me on my podcast. It's a passion project. I want people to know that I'm making music and I'm more than just a drag performer on stage. I can do other things to entertain.
Join Kylie Sonique Love and a stellar lineup of trans and non-binary performers at YOUphoria on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Imperial City Brew House. Presented by Sarnia-Lambton PrideFest, this event promises an evening of extraordinary talent, community spirit, and unforgettable performances. Admission is free, with donations supporting QT Camp. Don't miss out on this spectacular celebration of diversity and inclusion!
YOUphoria
Saturday, July 13, 2024
At Imperial City Brew House, in Sarnia, Ontario
This article has been brought to you by Diversity Ed. in Sarnia, ON.